Students learn from star chef

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic has added a new star to its cookery programme – renowned chef Shane Yardley. With an impressive resume, including Head Chef at the Hilton’s FISH restaurant in Auckland, Shane has worked with Simon Gault and has been a guest judge on New Zealand Master Chef. The seasoned cook has now returned to Tauranga where his career began – this time as a teacher.
 
“In 1992 I was a student at this Polytechnic,” Shane reflects. “This is where it started for me. When I speak to my students about the places I’ve worked and the people I’ve worked with I remind them that I was once in their shoes.”
 
“The students think it’s all pretty cool,” Shane continues. “They want to know what Simon Gault and Gordon Ramsay are really like. I tell them they are good guys. Gordon only yells because you have to be fast – people are waiting for their food!”
 
The change from chef to educator has been a complete transition for Shane, having to slow down from the frantic pace of head chef in a busy kitchen and adjust to a teaching one.
 
“I take my time with the students and explain what it’s really all about. It’s a lot calmer than a real kitchen. From knife safety to making a soup from scratch, I am here to build a solid ground work and make sure those fundamental skills are there.”
 
The news that Shane is back in town has not escaped Tauranga foodies – Shane has received a flood of requests for dinner parties, catering and helping out in restaurants. 
 
“I am happy to do that in time,” Shane laughs. “But for now I want to focus on the students and getting into the tutoring groove. That is my main priority and I’m so excited to be here. Bring it on!”